LOTHIAN WATER DRINKERS ARE TAP OF THE CLASS

Almost three quarters of people (73 per cent) in the Lothians are tapping into the trend of carrying a refillable bottle when on the go, according to the latest YouGov research.

The insight into the region’s water drinking habits comes as Innis & Gunn became the latest business to back Scottish Water’s Your Water Your Life campaign, which aims to encourage people to top up from the tap.

The firm currently offers free tap water top ups to people passing its bars, including the recently renovated Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom on Lothian Road, and the Beer Kitchens in Glasgow and Dundee – in a move designed to help reduce single-use plastic waste.

Figures reveal more people nationally are choosing to go with the flow, with around two thirds (65 per cent) of people in Scotland opting for a refillable bottle.

With the research showing 92 per cent of people in the Lothians drink tap water at home – the highest percentage in the country – it is hoped even more people will consider making the switch while out and about for the benefit of the planet, their health and their pockets.

Edinburgh welcomed the first Scottish Water Top up Tap last year, located outside the Scottish Parliament, allowing thousands of people to access fresh, clear drinking water at the push of a button.

The creation of a Top up Tap network forms part of Scottish Water’s drive to encourage its customers to carry a refillable bottle so they can stay hydrated with tap water, with taps set to be installed in around 30 towns and cities over the next two years.

Steve Drew, I&G Retail Director of Operations said:

“We’re happy to support any initiative that helps reduce single-use plastic waste, and those who need their water bottles topped up when they’re out and about are welcome to pop into our bars for a refill.”

Brian Lironi, director of Corporate Affairs, Scottish Water, said:

“It’s great to see that people in the Lothians are embracing drinking tap water on the go by using refillable water bottles. Your Water Your Life is about promoting the benefits with a view to making water from the tap the first choice of Scotland’s water drinkers.

“Not only can topping up from the tap make a positive impact on the environment, it tastes great. By changing our behaviour as individuals, organisations and communities, we can make a real difference.”